According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, the recycling rate has increased from less than 7 percent in 1960 to the current rate of 35 percent. An EPA study found that every 10,000 tons of materials recycled supports nearly 16 jobs and $760,000 in wages. Items like cardboard, metal cans and paper are commonly accepted by local curbside programs, and items like plastic bags, electronics and batteries can NEVER go in the curbside recycling bin. Visit the EPA's How Do I Recycle?: Common Recyclables to see how and where to recycle these and other items.